What are my childs chances for survival after ECMO?
ECMO support is usually offered to children whose chances for a healthy recovery are considered to be very good. We have performed more than 900 ECMO runs at Children’s since 1986, making us one of the most experienced ECMO centers in the world. We track patient outcomes very closely, and the ICU physicians will discuss with you the possible outcomes, risks and complications for your child while on ECMO. Because we have ECMO staff in-house 24 hours each day, there are no delays using this life saving technology. There are potential long-term problems that can occur, such as developmental and neurologic disorders. Neurologic problems have been associated with low oxygen levels to the brain prior to ECMO, or intracranial hemorrhage. Your child’s physician will discuss long-term problems that may occur as a result of your child requiring ECMO support. The Neurology Department will provide ongoing follow-up after your child has been discharged.
